Outemu Cream Pink vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Outemu Cream Pink and the Outemu Phoenix mechanical keyboard switches, the key difference lies in their operation. The Cream Pink is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who prefer a consistent feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch, featuring an under-skirt click mechanism that provides a unique crunchy and polished feel and sound profile, making it stand out as one of the most distinctive clicky switches on the market. While the Cream Pink is best for those seeking a linear switch, the Phoenix is perfect for individuals who enjoy a satisfying click with each keypress. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink and the Outemu Phoenix, it is evident that they offer distinct sound profiles due to the differences in their materials. The Cream Pink's nylon top and bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix's polycarbonate top and bottom housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature that leads to a clearer and more resonant profile. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, users can choose between a softer and fuller sound with the Cream Pink or a sharper and crisper sound with the Phoenix.
Despite their differences, the Cream Pink and Phoenix switches both excel in their sound profiles, each offering a unique typing experience. The Cream Pink's nylon housing provides a more muffled and round sound, perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing sound. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Cream Pink offering a softer and fuller sound while the Phoenix provides a clearer and more resonant sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Cream Pink and Phoenix switches differ in material, the qualities each housing material brings contribute to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is influenced by the material used, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate. Conversely, the top housing plays a role in the sound produced when a key is released, capturing the essence of the switch's unique sound profile. Despite their differences in housing material, both switches offer a customizable typing experience based on user preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that the Cream Pink has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Phoenix, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a relatively similar bottom out force, with the Cream Pink at 65 grams and the Phoenix at 62 grams. This means that while the Cream Pink may feel lighter to type on initially, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once the keys are fully pressed down. For users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions, the Cream Pink may be the better option. On the other hand, those who enjoy a slightly heavier keystroke for added feedback may lean towards the Phoenix. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Cream Pink offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix provides a shorter travel distance, which can be favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer distinct experiences based on their travel distances, with the Cream Pink offering a bit more depth and the Phoenix providing a quicker keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance in a switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is best known for its smooth and linear feel, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. In terms of sound, the Cream Pink is described as having a quiet and muted sound profile, which is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is best known for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, providing a distinctive and crisp sound profile reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch offers a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, thanks to its smooth and refined finish.
Overall, the Cream Pink linear switch and the Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Pink is ideal for those who prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Phoenix is perfect for users who enjoy a crisp and tactile typing feedback. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs. Ultimately, choosing between the Cream Pink and the Phoenix will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, you should consider your preference for a heavier bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, you may lean towards the Cream Pink switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a unique clicky sound profile, the Phoenix switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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